Five Freedoms

One of the simplest measures to determine whether or not an animal is being victimized is the "Five Freedoms:"

1. Freedom from hunger and thirst
The animal must have ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigor.

2. Freedom from discomfort
The animal must be provided an appropriate environment, including shelter and a comfortable resting place.

3. Freedom from pain, injury or disease
The animal must have access to medical care/rapid diagnosis and treatment.

4. Freedom to express normal behavior
The animal must be provided sufficient space, proper facilities and access to company of the animal’s own kind.

5. Freedom from fear and distress
The animal must be ensured conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering.

Society must not lose sight of the fact that victim animals often do not have a spokesman for their suffering. Each investigation into allegations of harm against an animal has an eye towards justice for each animal and for the community. The State of New York provides protection of the weak from the strong and defends the vulnerable against the tyranny of others. This includes all species. Violence is violence, and abuse is abuse, whether it is against a person or an animal. Our agency strives to ensure the lives and interests of animals are protected.